As Portugal exited Euro 2024 at the hands of France in Hamburg, speculation arose regarding Cristiano Ronaldo’s future with the national team. Coach Roberto Martínez expressed that it was “too soon” to determine whether Ronaldo had played his last game for Portugal, emphasizing that no individual decisions had been made yet.
Ronaldo’s performance at Euro 2024 raised concerns as he failed to score during the tournament, except in shootouts. His missed opportunity in extra time against France highlighted his struggles to replicate past successes on the international stage. With 130 goals for his country, Ronaldo holds the record for the most goals in international football, yet his recent form has raised doubts about his longevity in the Portuguese team.
Having won the European Championship in 2016 and amassed a total of 212 caps, Ronaldo’s illustrious career in the Euros has left a lasting impact. However, at 39 years old, questions linger about whether he will continue to represent Portugal leading up to the 2026 World Cup, where he would be 41. Ronaldo himself indicated that Euro 2024 would be his last European Championship, hinting at a potential retirement from international competition.
The emotional toll of Portugal’s elimination was evident as defender Pepe broke down in tears in Ronaldo’s embrace after the match. Pepe expressed the team’s disappointment at falling short in such a significant competition and emphasized the collective frustration felt by the players. Ronaldo’s stoic response to the defeat hinted at the internal struggle he faced amidst rumors about his future in the national team.
Despite Ronaldo’s resilience and undeniable impact on the Portuguese team over the years, his recent goal drought and subdued performances have sparked discussions about his future. The missed chance in the quarterfinal against France symbolized a potential end to Ronaldo’s remarkable international career, raising doubts about his ability to maintain his prolific scoring record in major tournaments.
Cristiano Ronaldo’s future with Portugal remains uncertain following their exit from Euro 2024. As the footballing world awaits his decision on whether to continue representing his country, the debate surrounding his legacy and potential retirement continues to unfold. Ronaldo’s unparalleled success in international football contrasts with his recent struggles, leaving fans and analysts alike pondering the next chapter in his storied career.
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